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Machine Operator Jobs in Syracuse, NY (NOW HIRING)

CNC Machine Operator

Syracuse, NY ยท On-site

$19 - $21/hr

CNC Machine Operator Pay: $19.00-$21.00/hour depending on experience Hours: 6:30am - 3:00pm Staffworks is seeking a reliable CNC Machine Operator to join their award-winning team! What's in it for ...

CNC MACHINE OPERATOR

Oneida, NY ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

CNC Machine Operator Please note: This position is for a CNC Machine Operator. Prior CNC machine operation experience is preferred. This role is responsible for operating CNC machines, monitoring ...

Coin Machine Operator

Syracuse, NY ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

With a strong mechanical/machine maintenance acumen and a high motivation, we lead the pack in Coin Processing. The Coin Processor - Warehouse Role: In branch locations around the world, we're doing ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Operator information

See Syracuse, NY salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Syracuse, NY is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues usually involves diligent machine maintenance, following safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Many companies provide ongoing training to help operators stay up to date with new machinery and processes, fostering a supportive environment for troubleshooting and skill development.

What is the work of a machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor equipment for proper functioning, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often using tools like control panels and gauges. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training in specific machinery.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator?

The average salary for a machine operator in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $25,000, while experienced operators with certifications can earn over $60,000 annually. Many machine operators work full-time shifts, often requiring knowledge of specific machinery and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Machine Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesConstruction sites, mining, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assemblyConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating specific machinery like presses, lathes, or CNC machinesOperating heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or excavators

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Operators typically work with manufacturing equipment in factories, focusing on production machinery. Equipment Operators usually handle heavy construction or earth-moving equipment in outdoor environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the work settings and machinery types differ significantly.

What is a machine operator?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. They ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, monitor machine output, and perform routine inspections or minor repairs as needed. Machine operators often work with specialized equipment and are trained to follow safety protocols and quality standards. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and meeting production targets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or CNC machinery are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and maintain productivity. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient machine operation and minimizing production downtime.

What do machine operators do?

Machine operators are skilled in operating machinery, often specializing in one type of machinery or industry to become an expert. Machine operators also have a general skillset, knowing how to operate a wide range of industrial machinery. Since there are numerous industries and sectors that use a multitude of machinery, there is always room to learn more.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Syracuse, NY? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Syracuse, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Syracuse, NY? For Machine Operator jobs in Syracuse, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Syracuse, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Syracuse, NY are:
What cities near Syracuse, NY are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Syracuse, NY with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Syracuse, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,376 per year, or $18 per hour.

Machine Operator Trainee

Alco Manufacturing Co

Kirkville, NY โ€ข On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Job description

4 Day Workweek! Monday - Thursday 6am - 430pm or 330pm-2am

Company Description

Located in Central New York, Manth Brownell is a leading manufacturer of precision machined parts serving various industries. The company has a diverse range of machines to cater to different needs, including Swiss style CNC machines, multi-spindle Euroturns, Gildemeisters, Wickmans, Davenports, and CNC Haas equipment. Quality and service are top priorities at Manth Brownell, which is ISO 9001:2015 certified, ITAR certified, and ISO 14001 certified.

Basic Function: Overall goal is to learn to operate production machinery and to verify part quality within company standards for safety, quality and productivity.

Essential Functions:

  • Load production equipment with raw stock into feed mechanism.
  • Monitor machine operation, report any irregularities to more experienced operator or set up person.
  • Assure parts meet customer specifications by measuring parts per inspection plan. Enter SPC as required and properly respond to out of control conditions.
  • Alert QC or supervisor if there are any questions/concerns regarding part quality.
  • May maintain and lubricate machine tools and equipment as needed.
  • Complete all paperwork per proper procedures (routing card, tool change logs, count sheets etc.). Properly identify parts and enter production into information system.
  • Move parts to proper location after machining and verifying part quality.
  • Communicate all information needed to assure smooth shift transition with prior/next shift at all times.

Additional Responsibilities:

  • Learn how to perform minor tool adjustments/changes as necessary to maintain part quality.
  • Housekeeping: maintain work area in a neat and orderly manner, keep floors clean and free of oil & chips.
  • Perform all safety inspections to equipment daily, use proper machine guards and lifting techniques.
  • Follow company policies, procedures and safety rules as described in the Alco Employee Handbook.

Knowledge, skills and ability:

  • Learn to read and understand Blueprints, Inspection Plans and follow instructions.
  • Learn to use and interpret precision measuring gauges including micrometers and calipers.
  • Ability to use the computer to enter production and print routing cards and complete all necessary paperwork.
  • Learn to use, understand and properly respond to SPC results.
  • Learn to use hand tools to make necessary tool changes (hammer, screwdriver, Allen and other wrenches).
  • Learn to sharpen tools

Special attention to the following safety policies:

  • Wearing of personal protection equipment
  • Lockout/Tag out
  • Fire response and evacuation
  • Ergonomics
  • Lifting policy

Education, Training and Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Short term trade schooling or on-the-job training
  • Exposure to factory environment and willingness to learn machine operations.

Physical Requirements:

  • Heavy work - lift up to 35 lbs. frequently, Occasionally up to 50 lbs.
  • Reach into machine, push/pull to engage machine, move parts.
  • Use fingers & hands to manipulate parts & close visual concentration while inspecting parts.
  • Repetitive motion required for loading stock, checking parts.
  • Continual standing and walking to perform duties.
  • Bend, stoop or crouch to clear chips or lift part pans.